Exploring the Differences between Hispanic Men and Women with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Using the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL)

Abstract

Studies have shown Hispanic patients are at an increasing risk of developing type 2 diabetes; however, little is known about whether gender plays a role. Several studies were examined to help answer this question. Results of studies found female Hispanic patients tend to be more sedentary and thus struggle more with obesity, while male Hispanic patients tend to be more at risk due to smoking status and hypercholesterolemia. In addition, psychological distress and chronic stress were more likely to affect the risk for diabetes in men while immigration status was more likely to affect cardiovascular health in women. More studies are needed to fully understand the role of gender on diabetes risk; however, practitioners can utilize known information in order to tailor treatment to male or female Hispanic patients.